From the carriage’s rear-facing seat, Darcy insisted, “Elizabeth, we cannot.”
Elizabeth Darcy clung to the coach’s strap out of necessity, but despite her husband’s reasonableness, she objected to his order. “But, Fitzwilliam, we must be home for Christmas.”
“Christmas or not, you’re too precious for me to risk your injury under such appalling conditions.” He eyed her expanding waistline, but he made no direct reference to the strong possibility that she carried his heir. Darcy gestured to the icy roads they had encountered outside of Harrogate.
With exasperation’s deep sigh, she said, “I shall bow to your wishes.”
Darcy realized that even after two years of marriage, it still hurt Elizabeth’s pride to allow him dominance over her in any way. They had always had a friendly “contention” between them, a well-developed twisting of language and logic. It was this quality that had attracted him to the former Elizabeth Bennet. “Verbal swordplay,” he had termed it. He rapped on the roof and gave Mr. Simpson orders to find appropriate lodgings.
Through the trap, his coachman shouted over the elements. “There be a small inn slightly off the main road. Maybe three miles, Sir.”
“Take your time, Simpson,” Darcy ordered.
“There is no need, Uncle,” Georgiana Darcy assured the Earl of Matlock. “Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth shall be home tomorrow. My brother wouldn’t miss Pemberley’s Christmas. It’s his favorite festivity. Fitzwilliam takes his seasonal duties quite seriously.” The girl tried not to flinch at her Aunt Catherine’s customary snort. If Georgiana had any inclination that her formidable aunt had called on her brother, the Earl, Georgiana would never have traveled to Matlock on a day trip. Lady Catherine De Bourgh had always frightened the girl, and recently her mother’s older sister had all but disowned the Darcy family when Fitzwilliam had chosen Elizabeth Bennet as his wife over Lady Catherine’s frail daughter, Anne. In fact, Lady Catherine’s condemnation of the new Mrs. Darcy had created a permanent split in the family tree. Darcy had refused to acknowledge the woman he once revered.
“And have we any news of the colonel?” Georgiana’s attempted nonchalance sounded contrived even to her. Information regarding Edward Fitzwilliam’s inevitable return was the true reason for Georgiana’s visit. The colonel had traveled to America nearly a year prior, and she had counted the days, praying for his early return: It was her secret Christmas wish. Along with her brother, Edward served as Georgiana’s guardian. It was he to whom she had turned when she felt intimidated by her brother’s sense of propriety and her aunt’s demoralizing mandates. And Georgiana cherished every moment she had spent with the man. The recent difficulties the army had faced in the Americas had brought her more than one sleepless night.
“We expect Edward’s return some time after the New Year,” the Countess had shared. “We had hoped he would be able to share the festive days under our roof, but the colonel’s last letter indicated otherwise.”
Georgiana let out a relief’s sigh: He would return soon. “I am pleased, Countess.” She had set her teacup on a nearby table. “Fitzwilliam will rejoice in the news.”
Lady Catherine had held her tongue longer than anyone could have expected. Then she spoke, and disdain laced her words. “At least, the colonel’s return will force your brother to see to your Come Out.You’re nineteen and haven’t made your appearance in London’s Society. It makes sense that Darcy would need to protect you from his wife’s influence,” she said with a snarl. “I’m certain that my nephew regrets his choice of mates, but who am I to bring that to his attention?”
Georgiana noted that both the Earl and his Countess rolled their eyes. She wanted to defend her brother’s decision, but she would not betray the fact that Pemberley had suffered with Elizabeth’s two previous miscarriages. Lady Catherine would see Mrs. Darcy’s inability to carry to term proof of Elizabeth Bennet’s inferiority. Georgiana’s aunt would have no sympathy for the grieving parents. “We’ve been busy at Pemberley establishing my brother’s imprint on the estate,” Georgiana lamely offered.
“Nonsense.” Lady Catherine ignored her niece’s explanation. “Darcy’s been the Master of Pemberley since his father’s passing.”
The Earl interceded. “It takes a young man years to replace his father’s legacy. My nephew’s marriage has opened new doors for Darcy’s separate identity. People considered the late Mr. Darcy one of the best. It’s no fault if Darcy has taken his time in creating his own hereditament.”
A second contemptuous snort filled the room. “Either way, Child, you should have made your Society entrance. Edward will see that Darcy no longer shirks his duties. The colonel may not have been able to prevent Darcy from denying his familial duty to Anne, but Edward has the legal right to insist upon your presentation. Thank goodness someone in this family understands decency and comportment.”
Georgiana wanted to scream that her aunt’s narrow view had nothing to do with correctness and everything to do with redress. Instead, Georgiana stood to make her exit. “We hope soon to see you at Pemberley, Your Lordship. My brother always appreciates your pragmatic advice, and I shall look forward to a chess rematch.”
The Matlocks followed Georgiana to their feet. Lady Matlock caught Georgiana’s hand. “We shall see each other upon Edward’s return if not before then. Give Fitzwilliam and Mrs. Darcy our affection.”
“Yes, Ma’am.” Georgiana turned to Lady Catherine. “As always, Aunt, it’s a pleasure to see you. I pray that you have a safe return to Kent.” Out of respect, Georgiana dropped a quick curtsy.
“Come,” the Countess said. “I am certain that your carriage and Mrs. Annesley await.”
“It is not much, Fitzwilliam,” Elizabeth observed as her husband assisted her from his traveling coach. The small inn on a secondary road obviously lacked the amenities to which they had become accustomed on this journey. No one hustled forward to help Mr. Simpson or Jasper with the coach.
Darcy followed her gaze and tried not to frown. “If the place is clean, dry, and warm, I will be thankful.” Icy rain pelted the umbrella he held over their heads. “Let us see what the man has to offer weary travelers.”
They entered the building to find a small common room with a full fire in the hearth. Darcy released Elizabeth to the blaze’s warmth while he met the jovial innkeeper, who bustled in from the kitchen. “Good-day, Sir,” the man called as he approached. Glancing at Elizabeth, he added, “I see that you and yer missus rightly decided to seek shelter from this storm. I be Josiah Washington, and this be Prestwick’s Portal.”
“An alliterative name.” Darcy observed the inn’s simplicity.
“Me wife’s idea — said it sounded like an expensive painting.”
“Would you have a room to let for Mrs. Darcy’s and my safe harbor?”
The man laid a registry book upon a tall table. “Darcy?” Mr. Washington smiled merrily. “I know of the Darcys who live in Derbyshire.You be kin to them, Sir?”
Noting the man’s age, Darcy said, “Likely my parents.”
“It be a great estate. I seen it once for meself,” the man said as he handed Darcy a pen and ink.
Darcy smiled, but he preferred not to allow Pemberley to define him. At least, he had not done so since meeting and wooing Elizabeth. His wife had taught him a difficult lesson about pretentiousness.
Elizabeth stepped beside him. “I hope Hannah and Mr. Lucas are not stranded someplace along the road.” Darcy had sent his valet and Elizabeth’s maid ahead.
“As they left a day before us, I am certain they have missed the storm’s worst. I’m sorry that we didn’t.” He spoke softly to her alone.
“It’s five days to Christmas Eve. We shall see Pemberley for the celebration.”
Darcy thought of the surprise he had arranged for his wife for her Christmas pleasure. He prayed it wasn’t for naught. Although she pretended otherwise, Elizabeth had suffered greatly from her untimely births. The losses had wreaked havoc with his wife’s normal playfulness. The first miscarriage had come mere months into their marriage. At the time, Mrs. Reynolds, his housekeeper, had assured Darcy that such lapses were common, and that his wife likely did not even realize her condition until it was over.
The second had occurred nearly a half year later. With that gestation, Pemberley had celebrated Elizabeth’s happiness, but some three and a half months into her term, the bleeding began. Darcy had immediately summoned a physician, but the man could do nothing for the child. Saving Elizabeth became the treatment’s focus, and although she had recovered physically, he often saw the longing displayed in Elizabeth’s eyes. For example, when her sister Jane Bingley mentioned motherhood’s joys, his Elizabeth seemed to die a slow, lingering death.
It explained why Elizabeth had refused to acknowledge her current condition. If she didn’t form an attachment to the child she carried, its possible loss couldn’t bring her pain. So, they — he, his staff, and Georgiana — had participated in a silent dance in which those who attended his wife ordered new dresses, without her approval, for her quickly changing body, and placed footstools close to her favorite chair, and catered to her cravings for chocolate and herring (fortunately not both at the same time). No one mentioned his wife’s condition, but they all tended to it.
“If you could do something to brighten Mrs. Darcy’s spirits, it would better your wife’s chances of carrying to term,” Doctor Palmer had suggested less than a month earlier. “The more Mrs. Darcy dwells on her losses, the more likely a repetition will occur.”
That very day, Darcy had sent a letter to Longbourn asking the Bennets to join him and Elizabeth for Christmas. His wife hadn’t seen her parents since the day she and Darcy had left Hertfordshire for Pemberley. Darcy had refused to allow her to travel following the two prior miscarriages, and then Elizabeth had spent two months with her sister when Jane had had her twins. Her other sister, Kitty Bennet, had visited Pemberley several times, but Elizabeth had bemoaned her father’s absence, and even that of her insensible mother. Therefore, he had dispatched the invitation, and the Bennets had readily accepted. He had carefully planned his Christmas surprise, but Darcy hadn’t considered the weather.
“If Mr. Parnell hadn’t been so obstinate, we might already be at Pemberley,” he observed.
In truth, Parnell had snubbed Darcy’s offer, claiming it was too generous to Darcy’s smaller investors. “You are a fool, Darcy,” he had said, “if you think I might involve myself in such a weak scheme. You would give away the cow before you had one drop of milk.”
Darcy had refused to do business with such a tight-fisted man. He was all for making a profit, but not at the expense of those less fortunate than he. He had sought out Parnell because Darcy had heard that the man was an astute businessman, and that Parnell understood what was required for success. Instead, he had found a bitter, conniving entrepreneur who spoke venomous words to his employees. Darcy had been glad to leave the negotiations behind.
“I should’ve left you at Pemberley, but I would have been sore to spend my nights alone or my days without the pleasure of your laughter,” he had told Elizabeth as they waited for Mr. Washington to arrange their room. “Quite selfish, but I find myself hopelessly addicted to your closeness.”
“I thought you admired me for my impertinence.” Darcy relished the fact that she teased him, a welcomed change from Elizabeth’s recent melancholy. Perhaps his taking her with him on this journey would promote her healing.
“Impertinence was your estimation,” he murmured close to her ear. “I sought the liveliness of your mind.” A raised eyebrow lodged her objection. “But I lied,” he said huskily. “It was for your skin’s creamy satin and that sprinkling of freckles across your nose.”
Elizabeth flushed. “Mr. Darcy!” she protested with a gasp.
“Yes, my Elizabeth,” he whispered seductively into her hair. “I am here to please you, my love.” His smile became positively smug. “You should also know that I admired your easy playfulness, the uncommonly intelligent expression of your beautiful eyes, and your light and pleasing figure.”
Although she blushed again, and her voice was tremulous, Elizabeth beamed with joy. She laughed, genuinely and fully, and Darcy’s heart opened further to her. Her laugh was the most delightful sound he had ever heard. “Fitzwilliam Darcy,” she began, “I cannot fathom how I ever thought you a prig.You are an absolute cad!”
He recognized how Elizabeth had chosen her words to evoke a reaction from him, so Darcy tempered his response. “True, my dear, but I’m your cad,” he taunted.
“Welcome to Pemberley,” Georgiana greeted Elizabeth’s family. A time had existed when the prospect of acting as her brother’s hostess would have brought her to tears, but under Elizabeth’s tutelage as well as that of her companion, Mrs. Annesley, Georgiana had developed more confidence.
Kitty Bennet boisterously caught Georgiana in a quick embrace. “I’m so happy to return to Pemberley. Hertfordshire is positively humdrum.”
Georgiana smiled warmly. She and Elizabeth’s sister had fashioned a companionable relationship over the past two years. Although Kitty didn’t share Georgiana’s interest in music and art, they both had questions about marriage and love and men, and for Georgiana, sharing their uncertainties had a calming effect. It said that she was not an aberration. Since the weakness she had displayed at age fifteen, she had often questioned her own curiosity. Finding Kitty Bennet equally at a loss for what to do to find love had served as a revelation to the awkwardly demure Georgiana. “It is always a pleasure to see you, Kitty. You’ve been sorely missed.”
Georgiana turned her attention to the Bennets. “Mr. Bennet. Mrs. Bennet.We’re pleased you joined us in Derbyshire.”
She followed the man’s gaze as he said, “The house is all Lizzy said it was.” The man sighed deeply. “Where is Lizzy? I expected her to greet us with open arms. It’s not like Elizabeth to avoid the cold. Has life at Pemberley made my daughter soft, a real lady of leisure?”
Georgiana blinked away the comment. If she had not heard Elizabeth use a similar teasing tone, she might’ve believed Mr. Bennet’s words held true censure. At first, she had often listened with an astonishment bordering on alarm at Elizabeth’s lively, sportive manner of talking to Fitzwilliam, but now Georgiana accepted Elizabeth’s sharp wit as the woman’s charm. In fact, Georgiana missed Elizabeth’s barbed humor. Since Elizabeth’s last disappointment, her brother’s wife had lost her sparkle. “Fitzwilliam is away on business. He and Elizabeth shan’t return until tomorrow. My brother had wanted your presence at Pemberley to be Mrs. Darcy’s surprise.You shall have time to settle in before my sister arrives.”
Mrs. Bennet caught at her daughter’s hand. “Show me Pemberley’s grandeur, Kitty. That’s all of which you’ve spoken for months. Although neither Lizzy nor Mr. Darcy saw fit to greet us, we shall persevere. I imagine an estate as grand as Pemberley will have a fair cup of tea to warm my bones and to settle my nerves.”
Kitty shrugged good-naturedly as she assisted her suddenly frail mother along the entranceway.
“Miss Darcy,” Mr. Bennet interrupted Georgiana’s thoughts. “You remember my daughter Mary.”
Georgiana curtsied. “Of course, I do. Welcome to Pemberley, Miss Bennet.”
“Thank you, Miss Darcy, for your hospitality.”
Mr. Bennet cleared his throat. “And this young man is Mary’s intended, Mr. Robert Grange. Mr. Grange is a clerk in my brother Philips’s law firm.”
Georgiana’s eyes widened. Mr. Grange was not on Darcy’s guest list. “I extend our Pemberley welcome, Mr. Grange.”
“Thank you for receiving me, Miss Darcy.” The spindly young man with a boyish face bowed stiffly to Georgiana before placing Mary on his arm.
Mr. Bennet bowed formally to Georgiana and then accepted her hand to walk with her. “Mrs. Bennet insisted that Mr. Grange join us. After all, Robert will soon be part of the family. Is that not right, Grange?” Mr. Bennet said jovially over his shoulder. He leaned closer to Georgiana. “I might require something stronger than tea to warm my old bones, Miss Darcy. Besides a fair cup of tea, I pray Mr. Darcy also serves a respectable spot of brandy.”
Mr. Bennet grinned conspiratorially at her, and all of Georgiana’s apprehension fell to the wayside. “Mr. Bennet, a smooth brandy and my brother’s library await you.”
“Miss Darcy,” Jane Bingley apologized. “How do I express my regret for thrusting an uninvited guest upon Mr. Darcy’s household? I realize your brother designed this Christmas celebration for Elizabeth’s benefit, and my sister Miss Bingley is not among Lizzy’s devotees, but I appreciate your accepting Caroline’s presence so graciously.”
Georgiana had accommodated a second unexpected guest with as much elegance as she could muster. Although her brother would have relayed his dismay about people imposing on the Pemberley household’s goodwill, Georgiana couldn’t follow suit. For her, serving as Fitzwilliam’s hostess spoke of how far she had come from that girl who had foolishly consented to an elopement. “Miss Bingley has a long-standing relationship with my family. It’s not an imposition, Mrs. Bingley.” Georgiana motioned a waiting footman forward. “Please show Mrs. Bingley’s nurse to the children’s rooms and ask Mrs. Reynolds to prepare a room for Miss Bingley.”
“You’re too kind, Miss Darcy. My husband and family are in the blue drawing room.” With a curtsy, Elizabeth’s older sister disappeared into the house’s interior.
Feeling the agitation of being Pemberley’s “mistress,” Georgiana let out a slow breath. She would have liked to spend private time at the pianoforte, to secret herself away from the world, but Fitzwilliam had asked her to organize Elizabeth’s surprise, and Georgiana would do her best. So, despite wondering whether she was designed to run any man’s household, Georgiana straightened her shoulders. She loved Elizabeth, and her sister had suffered enough. Steadying her resolve, she followed Mrs. Bingley toward the room where her brother’s guests waited. “Does anyone require fresh tea?” she asked as she swept into the room.
“Elizabeth, may I present Sir Jonathan Padget and Mr. Horvak. Gentlemen, my wife, Mrs. Darcy.” Both men bowed their greetings. “Sir Jonathan and Horvak are stranded also,” Darcy explained as he possessively placed Elizabeth on his arm.
Smiling politely, she said, “I am pleased for the acquaintance, Sir Jonathan. Mr. Horvak.” Both men possessed a strong aristocratic look. Besides his clothes’ fine cut, Sir Jonathan had chiseled, square jawed features. Horvak, tawny-haired and with roguish good looks, maintained a powerful ease, like that which Elizabeth recognized in her own husband.Wealthy and titled men had many of the same qualities.
“Please join us, Mrs. Darcy.” Horvak held her chair.
“Your husband was just explaining his difficult negotiations with Mr. Parnell.” Sir Jonathan gestured with an ale glass in his hand. “It is not surprising. Both Horvak and I have tangled with Parnell previously. A man wishing to ship out of Newcastle or Middlesbrough has to go through William Parnell.”
“Parnell is as tenacious as they come,” Mr. Horvak reported. “But one cannot totally blame the man. Brought himself to prominence with hard work and diligence.”
“Does Mr. Parnell have a family?” Elizabeth asked in curiosity. When Darcy had related conversations with the man, Elizabeth had wondered what had made Parnell so negative in his responses.
Horvak shrugged his shoulders. “I couldn’t say for certain, Mrs. Darcy. Parnell spends countless hours at his office or down by the docks. The man neglects his wife if he’s taken wedding vows; that would be a fact.”
“It’s also a fact that Parnell is one of the area’s richest men. If he’s married, Parnell’s wife wants for nothing but his company.”
“And you shall leave me stranded in Derbyshire without family with less than a week before Christmastide?” Lady Catherine argued with her brother.
The Earl expelled a sigh of exasperation; he had tried repeatedly to reason with his sister. “Catherine, the eventual heir to this title is about to be born, and I plan to be with my son when his child comes into this world. Rowland has sent word that it is only a matter of days before Amelia delivers her first child. The Countess insists that we travel to William’s Wood. You could always journey with us. I am certain that Rowland would welcome you and Anne.”
“But not Mr. and Mrs. Collins,” she declared. “I have promised the Collinses return transportation to Kent. Collins visits a cousin in Warrington. In fact, I have asked the Collinses to join me here. I am ever attentive to my duties.”
The Earl’s jaw set. “You invited your clergyman’s family to my home?” His voice increased in volume. “Catherine, sometimes you forget yourself. I had thought that you simply arranged their journey as you commonly do,” he said through gritted teeth. “Dear Sister, you may rule Rosings Park in lieu of Lewis De Bourgh, but Matley Manor is under my domain. I invite the guests!”
Lady Catherine’s eyebrow rose in disbelief. “You’d deny the Collinses? This was my childhood home, Martin,” she asserted.
“The house will be closed while the Countess and I are in Lincolnshire. I had planned to release the staff on Christmas Day anyway. You may choose to accompany me and Her Ladyship to William’s Wood, or you may return to Kent.” He slammed his fist on a nearby table’s edge, sending china and silver to the floor.
“Well, I never!” Lady Catherine sputtered.
The Earl shoved to his feet. “Never what, Catherine?” he accused. “Never considered anyone else’s opinions? Never showed true compassion? Never offered your genuine condolences? Never expressed love? There are so many things that you’ve never done, that I’m at a loss as to which one you mean!” He strode from the room without looking back.
“We had planned to wait for Mr. and Mrs. Darcy’s return,” Charles Bingley announced to those gathered in Pemberley’s small dining room, “but I cannot keep a secret.” Bingley lovingly reached for his wife’s hand. “In June, Mrs. Bingley and I will welcome a new addition to our family.”
The Bennets immediately congratulated their eldest, but Georgiana withheld her felicitations. She recognized how this news would “kill” Elizabeth, especially if her brother’s wife failed in her own delivery; and even though she desperately wished for her brother and sister’s speedy return, Georgiana was happy that Elizabeth didn’t have to witness this display.
“Oh, Jane, how smart you are,” Mrs. Bennet declared. “You’ve already given Mr. Bingley an heir and a daughter. “Another child. Another son. I just know it shall be another son.”
“I note your lack of enthusiasm,” Caroline Bingley whispered conspiratorially.“I thoroughly understand your disdain. My brother has aligned our family with an inferior bloodline, and, unfortunately, so has yours.”
Irritated that Miss Bingley had thought her so base as to wish Elizabeth’s sister not to know happiness, Georgiana warned, “Be careful, Miss Bingley. Your speech smacks of disappointment.” As soon as the words escaped her lips, Georgiana would’ve taken them back. They were uncharacteristic.
“My,” Miss Bingley began, “I see Mrs. Darcy’s lack of decorum has permeated your normally amiable nature, Georgiana.”
Georgiana stiffened. “If I could have even half of Elizabeth’s courage or her intelligence, I’d consider myself a fortunate being.” She shot a glance at Mrs. Annesley, who nodded her approval. Needing to escape an embarrassing situation, Georgiana stood. “If the ladies will join me in the music room, the gentlemen may see to their cigars. Miss Bennet has agreed to entertain us this evening. Mr. Grange, I shall charge you with seeing that Mr. Bingley and Mr. Bennet do not tarry.”
Her notice brought embarrassment. “Of course, Miss Darcy.”
“Ladies,” she intoned and led the way from the room.
“If you gentlemen will excuse me,” Elizabeth said as she stood. The small inn possessed only six rooms to let, and different gentlemen, each driven to seek shelter from the elements, occupied four of them. Two farmers, Mr. Betts and Mr. Dylan — strangers before the storm — had agreed to share the last available room, meaning she remained the single female. Feeling quite conspicuous, Elizabeth had chosen to withdraw to allow the men some freedom. There was no private room where they might take up their cards, cigars, and drink. Instead, the eclectic group shared the common room.
Darcy reached for her hand. “I will accompany you, Mrs. Darcy.”
Elizabeth smiled at him. She knew he worried for her health, and she fooled no one regarding her condition, but it was important to her to take control of this pregnancy. She had to deliver on her own terms. Her husband meant well, and she counted herself a lucky woman. What female would deny the company of a highly intelligent and caring man? Besides, Elizabeth considered her husband more than just a bit attractive: Fitzwilliam Darcy was a fine specimen, and she often found herself with unladylike wanton thoughts. In fact, she considered him roguishly beautiful and heart-stoppingly seductive, and even after two years, Darcy’s charms — the same charms that she had once adamantly denied — made her vulnerable. “You may, most assuredly, escort me, but I would encourage you to join the gentlemen in cards or talk of sport.”
“I will consider it, Mrs. Darcy.”
Elizabeth simply nodded her understanding. They had traveled together because Darcy had refused to permit her being out of his care. Her husband had portrayed his business trip as an opportunity for Elizabeth to see a part of England she had never experienced, as well as a means to purchase unique Christmas gifts. He even subtly suggested that she might visit with her sister Lydia when they stayed in Newcastle. And although she appreciated her husband’s attentiveness, she wouldn’t believe that Darcy was unaware of the fact that Lydia and Mr. Wickham had left Newcastle for Carlisle some three months prior. More than likely, her husband had had a hand in Mr.Wickham’s transfer. Darcy had seen to Lydia’s marriage when no one else could assist the Bennets in locating Mr. Wickham. Unabashedly aware of her sister Lydia’s propensity for profligacy, Elizabeth did what she could to keep her youngest sister from the poorhouse. The Wickhams were extravagant in their wants and heedless of the future. They were always spending more than they ought. By practicing what might be called economy in her own private expenses, Elizabeth had frequently sent her sister additional funds, but it was not enough to prevent the Wickhams from moving from place to place in quest of a cheaper situation.
Darcy stepped into the room with her before gathering Elizabeth into his embrace. Without prelude, he kissed her thoroughly. “I’ve been wanting to do that for the last two hours.” He trailed a line of wet kisses down her neck. “I never tire of touching you,” he rasped.
Quickly enticed by his heat, Elizabeth’s eyes fluttered closed as she whispered huskily, “For too long, I tried to keep my heart safe.”
He teased, “You could not. Not even when you were wretchedly blind to my finer qualities?”
Elizabeth chuckled ironically and pressed herself to him. “I did once gratify my vanity in useless mistrust. I’ve courted prepossession and ignorance, and I once drove reason away.” She felt her husband’s deep steadying breath and his instant hardness along her thigh. I wish I’d known before how gullible men are to words of loyalty, she thought. “In essentials, my love, you are very much what you ever were.”
“And you love me that way?” he rasped as his mouth slid along her collarbone.
“I love you in every way possible, Mr. Darcy.” Elizabeth snaked her arms about his neck.
Darcy kissed her deeply before reluctantly releasing her. “I shan’t tarry long.” He straightened his coat’s lines. “I was never a card player.” He glanced about the room to see that the maid had stoked the fire as he had instructed. “Keep the door locked. I’ll knock upon my return. One never knows how a man will act when he has nothing to do but to drink.”
“Do you expect trouble?” she asked with a touch of concern.
Darcy shook his head in the negative. “Just trying to anticipate the possibilities,” he mumbled. “Trying to protect my wife.”
“You have my permission, Mr. Darcy, to cater to my needs as often as you please.” Elizabeth went on tiptoes to kiss his chin while a slight smile crossed his face.
“Thank you,” Kitty whispered as Georgiana passed her in the drawing room.
Georgiana’s eyes scanned the room, making sure her brother’s guests found adequate refreshments. “I gladly accept your gratitude, Miss Kitty,” she mumbled. “But I’m at a loss as to what I’ve done to earn it.”
Kitty observed Georgiana’s countenance closely. She had admired Mr. Darcy’s sister from the beginning of their acquaintance. With Lydia’s speedy marriage, Kitty had been left with no confidante and little confidence in her own ability to attract a man. Fortunately, Jane and Elizabeth had stepped in — had brought Kitty to Pemberley and to Mr. Bingley’s estate in neighboring Cheshire. Her elder sisters had introduced Kitty to young women and men of quality. While at Pemberley, Kitty had found a copemate in Georgiana Darcy.“I overheard your conversation with Miss Bingley regarding Lizzy.”
Georgiana kept her eyes on the room, but she said softly, “Elizabeth is my sister, and as a Darcy, her name is mine to protect. However, even if it were not so, I would defend Elizabeth. It is the least I could do for all she’s given me: acceptance, understanding, compassion, conviction, and you, Kitty.” She finally looked at her friend. “Yes, Kitty, Elizabeth’s gift of her own sister was one of her greatest. I desperately needed someone with whom to share my childhood musings. Luckily for me, you also sought such conso-ciation. We’ve done well together, and, for that, I owe Elizabeth my allegiance.”
Kitty flushed from the notice. “You honor me, Miss Darcy.” Emotions washing through her, Kitty’s eyes filled with tears. “Those early days were awkward for us, but our amity pleases me. We’ve become quite adept at recognizing the best in each other.”
“That we have.” Georgiana smiled reassuringly. “Therefore, until Elizabeth’s return, would you assist me in seeing to everyone’s needs? You’re familiar with Pemberley’s inner workings.”
“I’d be pleased… very pleased.”
“Have you recently spent time in London, Miss Bingley?” Mrs. Bennet had cornered the woman near the pianoforte.
Caroline’s eyes hardened in disapproval. “I’m often in London, Mrs. Bennet, as well as Edinburgh. I travel to my friends’ country seats when Society is not in Season,” she intoned aristocratically.
“I certainly would have no objection to time in London, but Mr. Bennet hates town.” Mrs. Bennet announced a bit louder than necessary.
Caroline smiled mockingly. “If you were to spend time in London, Mrs. Bennet, where might you stay? If Mr. Bennet despises London, it’s not likely that he maintains a home in the city.”
Mrs. Bennet ignored the woman’s tone. Although she was well aware of her social abyss, she let nothing dissuade her, so she had succeeded where others had failed. Despite her family’s financial situation, she had married off three daughters and a fourth had made a respectable match. Only Kitty remained unattached. Jane and Elizabeth had married well, especially Elizabeth. “My brother and sister Gardiner maintain a London home,” Mrs. Bennet declared.
Miss Bingley replied with feigned graciousness. “Oh, yes. That would be the brother in Cheapside, would it not?”
“And you find Cheapside below you, Miss Bingley? If I recall, you once called upon my Jane at my sister Gardiner’s home. Did you find it lacking?”
Miss Bingley said through gritted teeth, “It was a most pleasant house for that part of the city, but you must understand, Mrs. Bennet, that the Gardiners’ home cannot be compared to those in Mayfair. A man who lives where he might oversee his warehouses wouldn’t be accepted in the finest homes.”
“As your father earned his money in trade, and your brother maintains those connections, I’m surprised, Miss Bingley, that you receive invitations to ton events. Perhaps that’s why you cling so tightly to your Pemberley association.” Having the upper hand, Mrs. Bennet strode away.
Claiming a cup of tea, she took a chair close to where Mary rifled through sheet music. She would never tell anyone how out of place she had felt as she had taken in Pemberley’s splendor: the spacious lobby, the elegantly decorated sitting rooms, the large, well-proportioned dining room, and the family portrait gallery. She’d known from Jane’s and Elizabeth’s descriptions that Mr. Darcy had extensive wealth, but she hadn’t conceived of the disparity between her own existence and that of her least-favorite daughter. She loved Elizabeth, but her second child had defied her at every turn. Elizabeth was Mr. Bennet’s daughter: Her husband and Lizzy had shared a love for reading and a fondness for twisting the King’s English, neither of which she cared to think on.
Taking a sip of tea, she settled smugly into the chair’s cushions. At least, between Jane and Elizabeth, she wouldn’t live in poverty when Mr. Bennet passed. It was that particular fear that had driven her to beg Elizabeth to marry Mr. Collins. Longbourn was entailed upon the man, and she’d thought it might remain in her control if the clergyman had chosen one of her daughters. Collins had eventually proposed to Elizabeth, but her daughter had vehemently refused the man — leaving the family in limbo. Mrs. Bennett had cajoled and threatened, but Lizzy had persevered. Now, it seemed that her second child had proven herself most astute in her denial of Collins. “Mr. Darcy holds Elizabeth in deepest regard,” her husband had assured her when he had announced their daughter’s impending marriage. She hadn’t believed it, at first. Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy had appeared to scorn each other. How was she to know that the man possessed a tendre for Lizzy? How was she to know any of it when no one thought her worthy of his trust?
The gentlemen joined them in a timely manner, and everyone prepared to enjoy Mary’s performance. Yet, before they could begin, Georgiana stepped forward. “By this time tomorrow, Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth shall have returned to Pemberley. My brother wished to surprise his wife with your presence. Our Elizabeth has missed you deeply, and she speaks of her Hertfordshire family with fondness. Traditionally, we decorate Pemberley’s halls the evening before Christmas, but I’m hoping that you’ll join me tomorrow as I undertake that task a few days early. I wish my family to return to a fully bedecked household — to step into a Christmastide fantasy.”
Jane piped up. “I love gathering greenery. Mr. Bingley and I shall join you, Miss Darcy.”
“As shall I,” Kitty added.
“Miss Bennet and I are at your disposal,” Mr. Grange said from his waiting position behind Mary. He would turn the pages for his intended.
Mr. Grange chimed in, “I’m not as young as I would like, but I can still use a saw long enough to cut evergreen branches.”
Mrs. Bennet dropped her eyes. Never very athletic nor one to enjoy the outdoors, she didn’t want to tramp across the lawns. “Perhaps I might better serve by adding my expertise to your housekeeper’s efforts.”
“Of course,” Georgiana said earnestly. “Mrs. Reynolds shall appreciate your ideas.”
Caroline snickered, drawing attention to the fact that she had made no commitment. “What?” she snapped.
“Shall you join us, Caroline?” Jane asked softly.
“I think not,” she said with indifference. “I rarely rise before noon, but, more importantly, domesticity is not my forte.”
Kitty noted Georgiana’s disappointment. “As you wish, Miss Bingley,” Kitty said pertly. “Now, Mary, what shall you play for us?” She wouldn’t permit Miss Bingley to destroy Georgiana’s plans. “Come, Miss Darcy, you’re to sit with me. When Mary finishes, we shall make a list of what we need to give Pemberley a festive look.”
Left alone, Elizabeth instinctively sought her small traveling box. Changing into a night rail and dressing gown, she curled up in a chair before the fire and unwrapped a beribboned bundle of letters. When Darcy spent time away from the estate, she often reread his letters. It was her way of keeping him close. Of course, the bundle held that legendary first letter, the one he had written to Elizabeth after his Hunsford proposal. She had once promised to burn it, but she would fight anyone who thought truly to do so. It was the letter that changed her life — the one which had given her a true understanding of the man so necessary to her existence.
Sitting before the blaze’s warmth, Elizabeth easily remembered how with his second proposal, Darcy had mentioned his letter. “Did it,” said he, “did it soon make you think better of me? Did you on reading it, give any credit to its contents?”
She had tried to allay his fears. She had explained what its effect had had on her and how gradually all her former prejudices had been removed.
“I knew,” said he, “that what I wrote must give you pain, but it was necessary. I hope you have destroyed the letter.” Of course, she had not. Elizabeth had read and reread it so often that she could recite it by heart. “There was one part,” Darcy had continued, “especially the opening of it, which I should dread your having the power of reading again.” It was so typical of her husband to worry that his words had brought her mental suffering. She loved him dearly for his compassion. “I can remember some expressions which might justly make you hate me.” As if she could hate a man who had unselfishly saved her family from ruin.
Elizabeth had seized the opportunity to protect him — to let Mr. Darcy know that she welcomed his renewed attentions. “The letter shall certainly be burnt, if you believed it essential to the preservation of my regard; but, though we have reason to think my opinions not entirely unalterable, they are not, I hope, quite so easily changed as that implies.” Yet, she had not burnt that first letter or any of the others that had followed. For a man who was abashedly silent at the most social of times, her husband was absolutely eloquent when he put pen to paper. Starting with the morning after their wedding night, Darcy had marked poignant moments with personal notes left on her pillow. She would wake to find what he couldn’t say in person.Tonight, she began her reading with that wedding night homage to their love: “My dearest, loveliest Elizabeth,” she read aloud.